Chromaffin refers to a type of cell found in the adrenal glands, which are located on top of each kidney. These cells produce and release various hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) into the bloodstream when the body is under stress or during a fight-or-flight response. The term "chromaffin" comes from the Greek words for color and affinity, referring to the characteristic appearance of these cells under a microscope due to their granules containing various hormones.